Are you ready to hit the road in your camper van, but running out of storage space for all your gear? A roof rack might be the solution you’ve been searching for! Maximize your camper van storage with high-quality Thule roof racks. Learn how to choose, install, and maintain the perfect roof rack for your outdoor adventures
When you're living the van life or simply planning a weekend getaway in your camper van, maximizing storage space is key. Roof racks are one of the most versatile solutions for transporting all the gear you need for your adventure. Whether you're planning to haul bikes, surfboards, kayaks, or extra luggage, a high-quality roof rack system is essential to ensure your gear is securely transported, leaving more room inside the van for comfort.
At Roof Box UK, we specialize in providing top-of-the-line Thule roof racks and accessories, perfect for camper vans. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about roof racks for camper vans and camper van accessories, how to choose the right one, and why Thule should be your go-to brand.
1. Why Do Camper Vans Need Roof Racks?
Camper vans, by their nature, offer limited space inside. That’s why roof racks are an essential investment for anyone looking to maximize their storage potential. Roof racks can carry large, bulky items that take up too much room inside your van, like bicycles, kayaks, surfboards, or even a roof box to store luggage.
Benefits of Using a Roof Rack on a Camper Van:
- Extra Storage Space: A roof rack allows you to free up precious interior space for more important things, like your sleeping area, kitchen gear, or extra supplies.
- Versatility: Roof racks can hold a variety of gear, from bikes and canoes to luggage and outdoor equipment, giving you the flexibility to carry more.
- Increased Comfort: With the extra storage space outside, your camper van becomes more comfortable for long trips, with less clutter inside.
2. What to Look for in a Roof Rack for Your Camper Van
When selecting a roof rack for your camper van, it’s important to consider the following factors to ensure you get the right system for your needs:
a. Weight Capacity
Each roof rack comes with a weight limit, and it’s crucial to adhere to this limit to avoid damaging the rack or your vehicle. Thule roof racks are known for their durability and high weight capacity, ensuring that they can safely carry heavy gear like kayaks or a loaded roof box. Make sure to check your camper van’s roof load capacity as well to avoid overloading, especially focusing on positioning if your camper has a pop-top!
b. Compatibility
Not all roof racks are compatible with all vehicles, so it’s essential to select a roof rack that works with your specific camper van. Thule offers a wide range of roof rack systems that are compatible with various camper van models, from small vans to larger, higher-roof vehicles. It’s best to check your vehicle’s make and model to find a roof rack that fits securely.
c. Ease of Installation
You’ll want a roof rack that’s easy to install and remove, especially if you plan to swap it out for other gear like bike carriers or kayak mounts. Thule roof racks are designed for easy installation, often with tool-free systems that make it simple for anyone to install or remove them, no matter your experience level.
d. Aerodynamics and Noise
One of the main concerns with roof racks is the potential for added wind resistance, which can lead to increased fuel consumption and noise. Thule roof racks are designed with aerodynamics in mind, reducing wind drag and minimizing noise during travel. Their sleek design ensures that your gear stays secure without significantly affecting your van's performance or fuel efficiency.
e. Security
A good roof rack system should not only be durable but also secure. Many Thule racks come with built-in locks to prevent theft of both the rack and your gear. Thule’s advanced locking mechanisms make it easy to secure your belongings while you’re on the road, allowing you to stop for rest breaks or explore new locations with peace of mind.
3. Types of Roof Racks for Camper Vans
Thule offers a range of roof rack options that can be tailored to your camper van's needs. Here are some popular options:
a. Base Railing Systems
If your camper van already has roof rails, Thule’s base railing systems provide the perfect foundation for additional roof accessories. These systems are designed to fit seamlessly with your vehicle’s existing structure, making installation quick and easy. You can then attach crossbars and a range of accessories such as bike carriers or roof boxes.
b. Roof Boxes
For longer trips or those who need extra storage for luggage, a Thule roof box is a great option. Roof boxes are designed to keep your belongings safe and secure, even during rainy weather. Whether you’re packing clothes, gear, or camping essentials, a Thule roof box provides additional, weatherproof storage without taking up valuable interior space.
c. Bike Racks
For cycling enthusiasts, Thule roof racks come with specialized bike carriers that allow you to transport your bicycles easily and securely. These racks are designed to minimize the risk of damage to your bike and keep it in place during transit. Roof-mounted bike carriers are an ideal solution for camper van owners who want to take their bikes along for the ride.
d. Kayak and Canoe Racks
If you’re heading to the coast or a lake and want to take your kayak or canoe, Thule offers roof racks specifically designed for watercraft. With Thule’s kayak racks, you can easily load and secure your boat to the roof of your camper van, leaving the inside free for other essentials.
e. Ski and Snowboard Racks
For winter adventurers, Thule also offers ski and snowboard racks designed to keep your equipment safe and secure during travel. These racks make it easy to load your gear and are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them perfect for road trips to the mountains.
4. How to Install a Thule Roof Rack on Your Camper Van
Installing a Thule roof rack system is a straightforward process. Thule provides detailed instructions with each product, but here’s a general guide:
- Choose the Right Roof Rack System: Based on your vehicle’s roof type (rails or fixed points), choose the appropriate Thule system (e.g., WingBar, ProBar, or SquareBar).
- Install the Foot Pack (if necessary): If your vehicle requires a foot pack, follow the instructions to attach the feet to your van’s roof.
- Attach the Crossbars: Once the foot pack is securely in place, attach the crossbars. Make sure they’re level and tightly secured to prevent movement.
- Add Accessories: After the base system is installed, add the accessories you need, such as a bike carrier, kayak rack, or roof box.
Thule roof racks are designed for easy installation, and many products are tool-free, so you don’t need to worry about complicated equipment.
5. Maintaining Your Roof Rack
Regular maintenance ensures that your Thule roof rack lasts for years and continues to perform at its best. Be sure to:
- Clean the racks regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Check for wear and tear on the straps, locks, and mounting hardware.
- Remove the racks when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Conclusion: Why Choose Thule Roof Racks for Your Camper Van?
When it comes to durability, ease of use, and versatility, Thule roof racks are the top choice for camper van owners. Whether you need to carry bikes, kayaks, or extra luggage, Thule offers a comprehensive solution that maximizes your storage capacity while keeping your gear secure and safe on the road.
At Roof Box UK, we’re your go-to experts in Thule products, offering top-quality roof racks, roof boxes, and bike carriers for camper van owners. Whether you're a full-time van lifer or just love the occasional weekend escape, Thule's products will help you make the most of your adventure.
Ready to upgrade your camper van? Visit our showroom in Bristol or shop online for the perfect Thule roof rack and accessories today!